New patron for hospital charity

The Health Tree Foundation – the hospital’s official charity – has welcomed Sir Reginald Sheffield as its first ever patron.

Sir Reginald is best known as the owner of Normanby Hall and Chairman of the Normanby Estate. He is delighted to take on the reigns as patron of the charity, as Scunthorpe hospital holds a very special place in his heart due to his family connections.

He said: “My Dutch grandmother set up and ran a hospital for soldiers during the First World War from Normanby Hall.

“After the war, the War Memorial Hospital was built from public subscriptions, on the site of the current Scunthorpe hospital. It was supported by my grandfather and a ward was named after the Sheffield family as a tribute for their support.

“I am very pleased to be involved with the Health Tree Foundation due to my historical connections with the hospital.”

Sir Reginald served as a Councillor on Humberside County Council from 1985 to 1993. He is a Deputy Lieutenant of Lincolnshire.

He has also served as the president of Scunthorpe United Football Club, vice chairman of South Humberside Business Centre, the president of South Humberside Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) and the president of Scunthorpe and District Victim Support. He is a former member of the London Stock Exchange.

Clare Woodard, charity manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome Sir Reginald Sheffield as our patron. His patronage will initially be for a three-year period and we are excited to have him on board.”